Jenny S who had an extended range lens implanted during cataract surgery to her only good eye

When I had my cataract surgery 18 months ago, I was 67 years old. Since the age of 13 I have only had peripheral vision in my right eye due to a trauma to the head, and totally relied upon my left eye for vision.

Inevitably, the vision in my left eye deteriorated due to a cataract forming, and neither glasses and or contact lenses seemed to help. After consulting an optician, he advised me to see a consultant to have the cataract removed.

I was extremely concerned as I had heard that often the cataract surgery could go wrong, which in my case would leave me virtually blind. I could only be advised as to which specialist surgeon I should see, and luckily for me my optician suggested Mr Shafiq

I made an appointment, and was not disappointed with the consultation. Mr Shafiq listened to my concerns and after a thorough examination he answered all of my questions and advised me on what could be done.

Surgery took place just over one week later. Mr Shafiq suggested a new type of lens called a Symfony lens, which would enable both distance and close sight, whereby doing away with the need for gasses. This particular lens was fairly new but had proven to be very successful.

I have had several operation in the past but none where I was awake during the procedure, so I was a little apprehensive.
There was no need as the team performing the procedure were amazing from start to finish.
Mr Shafiq talked me through each step, he was kind, caring, and put me totally at ease.

The operation was over very quickly and the results after 24 hours were unbelievable. Colours, were vibrant, particularly blue, everything was very bright and I could read without spectacles.

I did suffered a small set back one week later and went back to see Mr Shafiq. He reassured me that this was not uncommon and to have a little patience as it would probably right itself within a few days. He was absolutely correct and my eye sight returned.
I now can see both distance and close work without the aid of spectacles or contact lenses for the first time since I was a young girl.

My decision to have this procedure was a very difficult one having only one seeing eye, but I would not hesitate to have the same procedure again.
Mr Shafiq is, in my opinion, an extremely talented, accomplished, caring surgeon.

Jenny S Nov 2017

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Mr A Shafiq

I am a Consultant Eye Surgeon working in Newcastle.
I have 16 years experience as a Consultant .
I offer a bespoke cataract surgery service so that each person has vision that matches his or her needs and expectations.
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